Arsenal: Alex Iwobi Still Has Gobs To Prove This Season
Arsenal witnessed an outburst from Alex Iwobi in the second half of last season. But the Nigerian still has a long way to go to prove he’s here to stay.
Arsenal’s wide attacking situation was incredibly volatile last year. At different points in the season, you could find Theo Walcott, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Joel Campbell and Alex Iwobi all starting at the role opposite Alexis. In the second half, it was Iwobi who emerged to take the role.
It was quite the showing, as Iwobi displayed a type of direct play with solid creativity to give Arsenal a new weapon from out wide.
However, as is the case with most new talents, while that initial run was successful, defenses began to catch on. It happens to everyone, even Alexis. Iwobi was less than effective the further his run went on.
Plus, we also have to take into account that he was making these strides with the Ox out injured and Walcott still masquerading as a striker.
This year is going to be much different. This year, Alex Iwobi has gobs to prove to convince us that he is here in the senior team to stay.
As it stands, his injury set him way behind the eight ball. He will be returning to face Southampton, but in what capacity he will be used is yet to be seen.
Theo Walcott and the Ox were both given a few games to get their footing in the team and, while neither really grasped the role, both hold a special place in Wenger’s heart and both will continue to be given opportunities.
That’s not to say that Iwobi won’t be afforded opportunities, there will just be far less of them.
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We also have to consider what happens when Aaron Ramsey returns to the fray. Wenger has all the faith in the world in the Welshman and has proven in the past that when he’s healthy, there will be room for him. Even if that room has to be carved out wide. Even Lucas Perez could figure into the wide scheme and Danny Welbeck will when he returns too.
It is very possible that Iwobi is currently fourth in line to hold the role across from Alexis in the regular first team. There will be chances in secondary competitions, but that may be as far as he goes this season.
Do not consider that a step back for Iwobi. He is only 20 years old and while last year was fantastic to see, he still has growing to do. He took advantage of some fortunate circumstances and showcased that he was worthy of more looks. But he is not a set-in-stone first teamer just yet.
Look for Iwobi more in the FA and League Cup, where he can stake his claim at being a regular first teamer.
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